NSPCC reminding children's sports clubs across West Midlands importance of safeguarding
Between April 2024 and March 202525, the NSPCC say its helpline dealt with 623 contacts from adults concerned about a child’s welfare in a sports setting – an increase of 47 per cent on the previous year
Parents across the West Midlands are being reminded to check their children's sports teams have the correct safeguarding measures in place.
The message comes from the NSPCC and the NSPCC’s Child Protection in Sport Unit (CPSU) during its Keeping Your Child Safe in Sport week (6–12 October).
Through it, it aims to show the vital role parents play in their child’s sporting journey and encourage open conversations about the kind of support that helps children feel safe, confident and able to enjoy themselves.
Figures from the charity's helpline show between April 2024 and March 2025 it dealt with over 600 contacts (623) from adults concerned about a child’s welfare in a sports setting – an increase of 47 per cent on the previous year.
Rachel Wallace is the campaigns manager for the Midlands team, she says it's a positive people are reaching out and know where to access help and support but the numbers can also be a worry.
"Any rise in numbers makes us question whether that may be a trend of different concerns that are happening out there, so there's always more to do to help make sport as safe as we want it to be for children," she said.
"We know in the autumn it's a time when lots of people are starting new clubs and new sports and things as well so it's a good time to be thinking about it.
"When you're looking at a new club or sports group for your child, think about asking those questions, ask if there's a welfare officer at the club for your child, ask if the club's affiliated with a national governing body and whether it has a a safeguarding policy and complaints procedure."
The campaign is being supported by clubs across the region, including Worcestershire County Cricket, British Judo in Walsall, Coventry City FC and Leamington Rugby Club.